For the Work of the Lord's Service

“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, ‘Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take My offering.’” (Exodus 25:1–2)

God instructed Moses to tell the Israelites to bring offerings, not as tribute, but freewill offerings as loyal subjects to their King—Him, the God they vowed to follow and serve. Whether to bring an offering was a personal choice, but the contribution itself was not. God was specific in what He wanted. These offerings fit for a king were for a moveable tabernacle, its contents, and the priests’ attire. Even though He was present, God wanted a place where His presence might dwell among them (vs. 3–8). Where would people who lived as slaves for four hundred years come by these costly gifts? From the spoils of the Egyptians as they left Egypt (12:31–36). Every morning God’s people brought their offerings to Moses for the work of the Lord’s service until the artisans informed Moses, they had much more than was needed to complete the assignment. Moses had to instruct the people to stop bringing offerings! Fancy that!

The apostle Paul implores the Corinthian Christians to collect an offering for the poor and persecuted Christians in Jerusalem, using the believers of Macedonia as examples of generous givers (2 Corinthians 8:1–5). Though poor and persecuted themselves, the Macedonians needed no urging but joyfully stepped forward and liberally gave of everything they could to help fellow Christ-followers in need. God is not impressed with the amount of money people give but with the motive behind it.

Our tithes and offerings are for the work of the Lord’s service. God doesn’t need our money because He owns everything, including our finances. But our giving honors Him, blesses others, and helps us as well (2 Corinthians 9:6b; Luke 6:38; Malachi 3:10). If we supported our local places of worship and other organizations that help people, there would never be a lack when needs arise. But sadly, not everyone contributes. Does God require too much: one dollar for every ten? What if God calculated your monthly income based on your “ten percent” given? Are you doing your part? If you plant a few seeds, you reap a small crop, but when you plant generously, you reap bountifully. God loves a cheerful giver, one who gives from the heart (2 Corinthians 9:6–7).